Six-Year-Old Daughter Left Behind

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ Parents drove more than 200 miles Thursday before realizing their 6-year-old daughter was left behind in a gas station bathroom.

The family was reunited half a day later at the Marion County Children’s Guardian’s Home, where Hally Ence was being held until her parents, Michael and Gina returned, said director Paul Browne.

``This happens every day at malls,″ Browne said. ``It’s not a neglectful situation. She’s just upset. Four hours can be a long time in the life of a 6-year-old who’s been separated from her parents.″

The Ence family of Fairview, Utah, stopped at an Indianapolis gas station early in the morning on the way home from vacation in Massachusetts. The mother was seen taking two girls into the restroom, but returning with one. Attendants noticed Hally inside the store after the family drove off.

Four hours later, near Farmington, Ill., the parents realized their daughter was missing and notified authorities.